Clermont remembers fallen soldier

The Department of Defense announced on Monday the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Spc. Alexander J. Miller, 21, of Clermont, died July 31 in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, from wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire.

He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum. N.Y.

Fort Drum officials say Miller joined the U.S. Army in January 2007. After completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia, Miller came to Fort Drum in June 2007.

Miller's awards and citations include the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal and the Combat Infantryman's Badge.

“He was a great kid and we are going to miss him,” said BJ Gomez. Both Gomez and Alexander attended South Lake High in Clermont

“It does impact very close to home but he was out there doing what he loved doing best and I am proud of him for that,” said Gomez.

Miller enlisted in the armed forces right after high school at the age of 19. He was an Army Specialist and according to his friends, this was his dream to serve his country.

Miller’s mother was too emotionally distraught to talk to FOX 35, but Miller's brother said this is a difficult time and that the community has been very supportive.

Funeral arrangements have not been disclosed as of yet.